The People’s Security Services Committee on Monday approved a proposal to ban entry for individuals holding Israeli passports, until a ceasefire is established in Palestine, citing the ongoing human rights violations in Gaza. 

The decision was made during the second meeting of the Parliament’s 241 Committee, which convened to review an amendment proposed by opposition MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem from the Galolhu South Constituency.

The proposal, which was first introduced in May of last year, was amended during the meeting to focus specifically on Israeli passport holders. Originally, the bill included a clause that would have restricted entry for those holding passports from other countries in addition to Israeli passports. However, this clause was removed following a proposal from Hulhudhoo MP Mohamed Shahid. MP Shahid’s amendment called for a ban on entry to the Maldives for anyone holding an Israeli passport, effective from October 7, 2023, until Israel ends its military actions and alleged ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Gaza.

The revised bill, which now targets only those with Israeli passports, was passed unanimously by all members present.

The decision to impose the travel ban comes amidst increasing global criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, with many nations and advocacy groups condemning the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis. The Maldives, which has been a vocal critic of Israel’s policies, joins a number of other nations in expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people.